This paper describes the design of ConvoCons, a system to promote affinity of group members working in a co-located multitouch environment. The research includes an exploratory study that led to the development of ConvoCons as well as the iterative evolution of the ConvoCon system, design tradeoffs made, and empirical observations of users that led to design changes. This research adds to the literature on social interaction design and offers interface designers guidance on promoting affinity and increased collaboration via the user interface.
Michael A. Oren, Stephen B. Gilbert